Warning for sevens teams

National sevens coach Ben Ryan will be the chief guest at the Marist 7s. Picture: IAN MUIR

THE organisers of the 38th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s are asking interested teams to register before the closing date on February 18 to avoid disappointment.

The two-day tournament, which will be held on March 7 and 8 at the ANZ Stadium, will have 64 teams competing in the main category.

Marist Rugby Club president and organising committee chairman Lawrence Tikaram said in the past, teams had missed out of tournament because of late registration.

"As we prepare to host the biggest 7s event in the country renowned for its best organisational performance, team managers and coaches are reminded not to let the players down and register before the closing date, as over the years we see players lose out on all the hard work of preparation because team officials have failed to register on time," Tikaram said in a statement.

"All managers are to contact mobile numbers 7027462 or 9998896 to register as soon as possible."

Fiji 7s coach Ben Ryan will be chief guest at the 2014 Marist 7s and Tikaram adds this will motivate players to perform.

"This year's event will see our 'Search for Rio' start as we look to identify new raw talent for Fiji rugby working hand in glove with them."

There will also be a women's rugby category featuring eight teams and golden oldies with six teams.

"Special features for this year's event are that all teams will be allowed to register 15 players per team with three officials but in each game they will have to select 12 players to play," Tikaram added.

The Marist 7s will be the last test for players wanting a spot in the Fiji team to play in Hong Kong this year.